Livingston Reporting - page 223

For Continued Success Evaluate Your Packaging and Labeling Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Consumers have begun to recognize how their lives are impacted by product packaging.  They are making buying decisions based on packaging convenience.  It is crucial for continued success and growth that manufacturers take time to evaluate their packaging and options that are available.  It may be time to rebrand to ensure consumers are getting a quality product in the most convenient packaging available on the market today.

One option in packaging that is taking the custom packaging and labeling industry by storm is flexible packaging.  The benefits that arise from flexible packaging are not limited to the consumer alone which is another reason that it has become such a popular option.  Many product markets are switching away from cardboard or cans and transitioning towards bags and pouches to capitalize on their markets.

There are several benefits when choosing flexible packaging from a manufacturing stand point.  One of the major advantages over other types of packaging is the efficiency in manufacturing the package itself.  Flexible packaging offers a light weight packaging solution with little waste.  It also decreases the amount of shelf real estate that is needed when displayed.  These two factors in themselves give manufacturers an edge over other packaging options.

Manufactures that have switched to pouch packaging also report a decrease in production and shipping in handling costs.  The lightweight package decreases freight costs.  This is great for companies that are looking to cut costs.  The cost savings seen in flexible packaging are abundant.  Don’t simply focus on the savings seen within the manufacturing process.  Consider the additional costs occurred with other packaging options such as the need for separate custom labeling and more as well.

Another benefit with flexible packaging is its eco-friendly nature.  During all stages of a products lifecycle it is important that it is sustainable.  Flexible packaging maintains this requirement throughout from requiring less water and energy for production to lower fuel consumption in transportation to less package waste in landfills.

Flexible packaging is available in a number of varieties to accommodate a wide range of products.  Growth within the industry is occurring throughout the food and beverage industry and beyond.  Manufacturers looking for greater visual appeal, versatility, convenience, greater shelf impact, increased freshness and more should consider all of the options available when using flexible packaging.

Your products package must keep up with the ever changing demands of consumers.  Give your product a competitive edge by upgrading to flexible packaging where it makes sense in your company’s product line.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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Invest In The Best

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to buying aluminum fencing it is essential that you carefully research all of the available options.  Purchasing aluminum fencing is quite an investment, one that is intended to be a permanent presence for decades to come.  In order to assist you in your quest to find the perfect addition in aluminum fencing to your landscape we have created this detailed guide on what to look for.

Affordable Pricing

Aluminum fencing doesn’t have to be extravagantly expensive in order to be a solid investment.  The cost of the fence isn’t everything but it is important to note that not all quotes are created equally.  Sometimes manufacturers quote out the lowest grade fencing available to win a bid only to later mention that the fence that was quoted was of a lower quality than expected.  When comparing fence quotes from various manufactures it is important to take into consideration the quality of the fence being quoted along with all the extras.  A price that seems too good to be true probably is.

Customer Service

While you are exploring online aluminum wholesalers take into account the customer service you receive.  Not only should you be working with customer representatives that are kind and courteous but they should also be experts in all aspects of fencing.  You need a representative that can take you from measuring the yard through to the installation process.  If you need help or questions should arise at anytime throughout the process you will want to know that they are there to assist you.

Warranty

Two things are really important when it comes to the warranty on your aluminum fencing.  Not only is it important that the fence manufacturer offer a warranty it is equally important that they honor it.  Find out what the warranty covers.  If the fence breaks under normal use will they replace it?  How about if the powder coating on the fence starts to chip or peel?  Even worse what does the warranty cover if the fence is damaged during a weather related incident?  A fantastic warranty will save you a lot of heartache if something ends up happening to damage your aluminum fence.

The Basics

Aluminum fencing comes in several different grades that will vary the weight of the fence.  It is important that you purchase the fence grade that goes along with the desired application.  Most manufacturers offer residential, pool grade, commercial and industrial fencing.  Aluminum fencing is known for its ease of installation.  Aluminum fence manufacturers can help customers with installation by providing detailed step by step instructions to follow.  Also, take into consideration the different charges for extras and enhancements to the aesthetics of the already beautiful fence such as puppy pickets, finials and such that enhance visual appeal.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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There Is No Better Option Than Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Aluminum fencing is by far the best type of fencing that your money can buy.  This is especially true for the DIY homeowner looking to install their fencing.  Whether you are looking to enclose a pool, backyard or looking into perimeter fencing for a business there isn’t a better option than aluminum.  Not only does it serve a purpose, it does so while looking classic and adding value to your home.  Aluminum fencing not only increase the homes aesthetics but also its value overall.

There are quite a few misconceptions that surround the purchase and installation of aluminum fencing.  In the following installment we will dispel the top myths surrounding aluminum.

The first misconception that many perpetuate about aluminum fencing is that it is not as strong as steel.  This is absolutely false.  Yes, aluminum fencing is lighter in weight than wrought iron but in no way should you take that to mean that it is any less durable.  When it comes right down to it the weight ratio of aluminum fencing panels is equivalent to the density found in steel.  It is true that steel is stiffer and heavier than aluminum but both materials are equally durable and strong.

Many people believe that aluminum fencing will eventually rust.  This is however untrue as well.  The aluminum may oxidize over time but will never rust.  The aluminum is coated with a powder coating that prevents rusting and helps to diminish oxidization.

Homeowners with an even landscape often think that aluminum fencing will not properly rack.  This however is completely untrue; in face aluminum fencing is easily racked and works well on even the steepest of landscapes.  This is especially true now with the changes that have recently taken place in aluminum fence manufacturing.  New technology in aluminum fencing allows the railing to follow along the ground while keeping the pickets vertical.

Some people believe that aluminum fencing doesn’t hold up over time.  This is completely untrue.  In fact many homeowners that have purchased an aluminum fence will purchase it again if they move to a new home.  It is a popular option because the powder coated surface allows the fence to maintain the classic look and appeal from the first day it is installed for the entire time it is in use.  Maintenance is low and the wear and tear over time on aluminum fencing is minimal.  It truly holds up without nearly the maintenance seen in with other fencing materials.

You might think that with all of the benefits listed above that aluminum fence is expensive to purchase and install but that is untrue as well.  Aluminum fencing does cost more than wood or chain link but when you consider the cost savings in installation and maintenance you will see the bargain that aluminum actually is.

Aluminum is a truly classic material that when used in fencing is strong, durable, maintainable and easy to install.  It is available in a number of colors and styles to choose from and can be purchased from the comfort of your own home through online aluminum fence wholesalers.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Preventing Damage To Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

I always get asked what special precautions should be taken to ensure that aluminum fencing withstands high winds and heavy storms.  Although there is no guarantee that your aluminum fence will make it through a hurricane, tornado or other natural disasters there are several steps that can be taken to prevent inclement weather from destroying your aluminum fence.  Let’s face the facts; the only thing holding your fence upright is the pressure of the posts against the soil.

One way to help prevent major damage to aluminum fencing even in the midst of the most horrific of storms is to look at the natural elements within the yard surrounding the fence.  Trim trees and dead branches to keep them from being blown off during strong winds or heavy rain.  Limbs should be trimmed twice a year, at the beginning of summer and the end of fall to help prevent them from falling onto the fencing.  Have all the trees in your yard that are dead or dying removed from the space.  Many times dead trees will completely uproot in the midst of severe weather.  A falling tree or several heavy branches can cause a lot of damage to your fencing panels.

Another way to keep your fence from getting damaged during a storm is to make sure the fence posts are secure.  Take a few minutes and walk around the aluminum fence posts.  Check for loose or unstable fence posts as they have the potential to lift up out of the ground during a relentless storm.

When you know a storm is coming you can prepare your fence by closing and locking the aluminum gate.  If an aluminum gate is left unlocked during severe weather it runs the risk of being ripped off or slamming into the rest of the fence.  Leaving the fence unlatched during inclement weather also could lead the gate to damage the integrity of the fence itself.  The swift pull and push of wind on an aluminum gate will have it going in a million and a half directions.

Another solid piece of advice to keep your aluminum fence and gate from being damaged in a storm is to eliminate all the backyard objects that are free flying.  Take all chairs, tables, sports equipment and such into a secure garage or shed area.  That way if the wind picks up objects won’t randomly be flying through the air causing damage to the fence or home.

If by chance you do experience storm damage to your aluminum fencing don’t fret.  Check out your local online aluminum fence wholesaler who can help find you the correct aluminum fencing replacement parts to fix your homes fence.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Home Improvements and Their Return On Investment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Every update done to your home has a return on investment at resale that should be considered before tackling it.  Below you will find the average ROI you can expect when contracting popular home renovations.

  • Minor Bathroom Updates Average ROI 102% – Renovations to a bathroom that do not include redoing electrical or plumbing range around eleven thousand dollars. This includes replacing the tub, tile surround, flooring, toilet, sink, vanity and fixtures.   If the tub is going to be too difficult to replace consider updating the tub by re-glazing the surface.  Fresh glaze allows a tub to appear brand new.  A fresh coat of paint and updated shower curtain or doors really add to the any bathroom renovation.
  • Updated, Simplified Landscaping Average ROI 100% – Hiring a landscape designer really pays off when it comes to landscaping. For the most part it is safe plan three quarters of your budget for materials and one quarter on the design and installation.  Check around your neighborhood to determine what is appealing to the exterior of homes that are similar to yours.  A bit of color can really enhance the landscape.  For a grand impact choose one color and vary the heights of the landscape plants.   Don’t allow the landscape to become overgrown.  Keep it charming and simple.  Walkways and water features are other attractive features that add interest and visual appeal.
  • Minor Kitchen Renovations Average ROI 98.5% -Most kitchens can be completely renovated without changing the floor plan of the space. To maximize your renovation dollars re-face cabinets and drawers, change out the sink and fixtures, cabinet hardware, flooring and countertops.  Additional lighting will add substantially to the kitchen.   The overall value of your home before the minor renovation will also determine the materials you should use.  For homes over three hundred thousand dollars can be updated with higher valued materials like granite, glass and stone.  Consider your flooring choice as well depending once again on the value of the home.
  • Exterior Improvements Average ROI 95.5% – The curb appeal of your home really sells itself. Updates to the siding can really change the appearance of your home while helping to lower maintenance.  Wood siding requires real maintenance whereas vinyl siding only really requires a spring power washing every other year.  Another renovation that contractors suggest when updating your home’s exterior is the addition of a new entry door.  Fresh paint to exterior columns can really freshen up the space as well.  Add some seating and lighting to really add to the return on investment of your exterior renovation.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Handyman Renovations Under $500

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are so many things that can be done to increase the appeal of a home without breaking the bank.  Below are seven of the best home improvements that local handymen can be hired out for less than five hundred dollars.

The first improvement that is always suggested by contractors has to do with increasing the curb appeal of your home.  For less than five hundred dollars homeowners can hire a handyman for the day to do just that.  Increasing curb appeal is going to involve different tasks for every home however the following improvements should be considered when seeking to increase your homes curb appeal:

  • Exterior Pressure Washing
  • Wash Exterior Windows and Screens
  • Repair Broken Concrete Sidewalks and Steps
  • Update The Mailbox
  • Edge The Lawn
  • Trim Bushes
  • Pull Weeds
  • Freshen Up Mulch

Another inexpensive home improvement that makes a big difference comes with the entryway of your home.  For less than five hundred dollars you can replace the front door, add some color to the entry, update light fixtures and add an entry door rug.  Contractors all say that the little enhancements to the home’s exterior appearance do a lot to add to the attraction of your property.  A well kept exterior translates into a home that is taken care of.

If you have five hundred dollars for home renovations another huge renovation that can be done that does a lot to increase the homes overall presences is repairing and painting the interior walls.  Handymen are often called in to freshen up interior paint.  A fresh coat on the walls and trim can really transform a room.  Don’t forget the ceiling!

Just like a new necklace can transform an old outfit lighting can change up a room.  A little pizzazz can be added throughout your home my switching up the style of lighting fixtures that are installed.  For less than five hundred dollars you should be able to budget for lighting upgrades and fresh light bulbs to almost every room in your home.  Larger fixtures such as ones you would find in a kitchen or foyer will take up the majority of the budget.  For these pieces consider looking for ideas outside the normal.  Online sites offer a great deal of large scaled budget lighting options that can be fairly inexpensive to reproduce.

No matter what home renovation that you choose there is a lot that can be done by hiring a professional handyman for the day.  For less than five hundred dollars it is possible to hire a local handyman once a year to add a different perspective to a space that needs some wow factor added.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Options In Pool Plastering

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The options in pool plaster have long moved past the days of white plaster.  Company’s offer pool plastering services today still offer good old fashion white plaster, color additives and colored aggregates that add visual appeal, increased strength and increased client satisfaction. The combination of plaster options is endless; each offering a unique perspective and appeal that is as distinct as the landscape surrounding the pool.

A pools plaster can last for many years meaning that most homeowners will not have to concern themselves with plaster options too frequently.  Eventually the corrosive chemicals and water begin to deteriorate the pools plaster surface.  Thus making the surface rough and staining more difficult to remove.  This is when homeowners know it is time to upgrade the plaster on the pools surface.

The pools plaster is the waterproof coating that is added on top of the gunite shell.  The plaster is intended to slowly wear.  In most cases the plaster is not replaced to retain the pools structural integrity or retain waterproofing but instead to enhance the pools appearance.   Stained, rough, pitted plaster surfacing is the reason most residential and commercial pool owners choose to resurface a pools plaster.

There are many additives that can be used to enhance your pool.  Basic white pool plaster is a combination of cement and marble dust.  This combination is often referred to as marcite.  When mixed together with water and binding additives it is sprayed on a prepped surface and smoothed to perfection.

Color additives can be added to the plaster to produce different results.  Popular color choices are hues of grey and blue.  Colored quartzite chips can be added to plaster to create visual attraction and more durability.  These colored quartzite chips are used to hide imperfections and be more resistant to the deterioration from chemicals.  Pozzolans are added to plaster but go undetected visually.  This additive locks up calcium hydroxide and prevents its reaction to other chemicals.   This allows for the plaster to remain smoother and last longer.  One last additive we will talk about is silicone shielding.  This is used to reduce staining by basically waterproofing the plaster.

Exposed aggregates such as pebbletec and beadcrete are used to create a bumpy texture and slip resistance nature to the surface.  Both products add a visual appeal that cannot be reproduced with regular plaster.  Pool owners looking to enhance the landscape of the pool can do so using either of these products.

There are so many choices beyond white pool plaster.  Be sure to check with your local pool plastering company to find an option that works to enhance your pool environment.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Painting Verse Plaster In Pool Re-Surfacing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In-ground pool owners hit the jackpot this summer.  Temperatures have been some of the hottest we have had in years along with record high humidity levels and low amounts of rain.  This summer backyard pools have been put to good use.  Have you started to notice that condition of the pools surface starting to look a bit dull and lifeless?  Are you considering a facelift to the interior surface of your pool before the start of the next summer swimming season?

There are a number of options to consider in pool plastering options.  Some consider painting the pool in order to give the surface a fresh appearance.  Back in the day, painting the pools surface was an annual rite of passage in opening the pool.  Then pool plaster was introduced and pool owners came to appreciate the longevity and durability that comes along with this option.  What now?  Do you go old school and paint the interior surface of the pool or do you follow the modern trend of plastering when faced with preparations for the next swimming season?

Paint verse Plaster – Who Wins?

Endurance Factor

Painting a pools interior surface will only keep it looking updated and fresh looking for one season.  Plaster is definitely the better option when looking at the endurance factor.  Pool plaster, when professionally installed can last anywhere between fifteen to twenty years.  Where as a painted finish at best can make it through two full seasons before it needs to be done again.  Professional pool plastering when done properly is a far superior in endurance over painting.

Durability Factor

Paints that are specifically designed for use in spas, pools and outdoor fountains are durable given the beating taken from chemicals and climate changes.  The problem exists in durability when it comes to the thickness of the surface.  Painted surfaces are not nearly as thick as plaster surfaces, making them less durable overall.  A plaster pool is about a half an inch thick and therefore can handle more of the everyday beatings that an in-ground recreational pool takes.  If you are surfacing a fountain that will not be abused daily by cleaning equipment and tiny humans then painting it may be just fine.

Preparation

Both applications require some degree of preparation to be done before they can be applied.  The pool must be completely dried and prepped for the new surface to be applied.  Painting a pool requires far less prep than plaster however plaster is usually done professionally therefore requiring know amount of prep work to be completed by the homeowner.

Apply and Finish

Once a pool has been prepped for painting the process is fairly simple.  The pool paint is mixed and applied to the surface.  Two coats are required and can be done within four to six hours of one another.  The pool should not be refilled with water until the surface is completely dry which can take anywhere between two to five days depending on the weather.  Pool plaster on the other hand is quite difficult to apply and is best left to the professionals.  A professional plastering company will apply the plaster mixture using a thick hose.  It will then be smoothed out evenly.  This process usually can be done in one day and the water can start to be added to the pool.

It’s fairly easy to see why individuals choose plaster over painting when it comes to resurfacing their pools.  In the end it may cost a bit more but saves a whole lot of time given that plaster has a longer life span and will most likely not need to be done more than once over the time that you own the pool.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Creating A Grand Entrance To Your Home With An Electronic Driveway Gate

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What better way is there to treat yourself then with a grand entrance to your home?  Custom entry gates are just one way in which homeowners can add aesthetic flair to their driveway and landscape.  Each and every time you enter your property the entry gate will greet you with memories of what is most important to you: the safety of your family.  Gates don’t only look terrific they help to keep your family safe by keeping intruders out and your family safe inside.

When discussing what type of entry gate to install there are two main styles to consider: swinging and sliding driveway gates.  The kind that you choose will depend mostly on the level of the landscape surrounding the area in which the gate will be installed.  Narrow, flat driveways work best with swinging style gates where as unlevel, wide driveways are better suited for sliding gates.

There are numerous materials that homeowners can choose from when picking a gate.  Wrought iron is a popular choice because it offers properties that are anti-corrosive thus making the gate practically maintenance free.  Other prevalent materials regularly seen are aluminum and steel.  Wooden gates are an option if homeowners are concerned with keeping costs down.  It is important to note however that wooden driveway gates do require a great deal more maintenance than a metal gate.

When it comes to installing a driveway gate most homeowners leave it up to the professionals.  If you are the DIY type and want to give installing an entry driveway gate on your own there are a few things that you should consider first.

The gate should be installed away from the road far enough that at least two cars can pull into the driveway without blocking the roadway.

If a swing gate is going to be installed make sure that the gate is swinging towards the home and away from incoming traffic.

When measuring the space where the gate is to be installed make sure to leave plenty of room for emergency vehicles and larger delivery trucks.

The tips above can get you started on the path to purchasing an entry driveway gate but make sure to do thorough research into different decorative styles because there may be styles available that you have never seen before.  Get at least three different quotes from gate suppliers and installers before settling on an option.  Custom entry gates are worth every penny especially when viewed as a piece of landscape art.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic driveway gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

SAC Fence

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Should You Have An Electronic Swing Gate or Sliding Gate Installed

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

For homeowners and businesses alike there are advantages and disadvantages to installing an electronic sliding driveway gate over an electronic swinging driveway gate.  In order to find the best option for your property you should consider numerous factors including: the available space, level of security needed and your budget.

Finances

Is cost a factor in the installation of a driveway gate?  If you are on a tight budget a swing driveway gate is often less expensive than a sliding gate.  The difference in cost comes from the mounting and operations of the gate.  The size and material of the gates are similar but the added expense is in how the gate actually opens.  Sliding gates require a track and rollers whereas a swinging gate uses only hinges.

Upkeep

When it comes to having a gate installed it is important to remember that the gate itself no matter if swinging or sliding will have less maintenance and expense if it is not electronic.  Electronic swing gates and electronic sliding gates both require a degree of maintenance.  A sliding gate requires that the track stay clean from outdoor elements such as leaves, sand, rocks and other debris.  Owners of electronic gates should invest in a special brush that can be used to sweep the gate track frequently to avoid issues from arising.  Also the gate operator and electronic keypad may require updates and regular maintenance.  This is something to consider when budgeting for an electronic entry gate.

Accessible Land

Both styles of fencing have their own unique requirements for the landscape around them.  If your driveway is short and wide most often a sliding gate is your best option.  This is especially true if the entry has any sort of sloping.  Slide gates require space on either side to slide into but do not require space to open out thus making sliding gates a great option for driveways that are not flat on either side.  On the other hand swing gates work just fine on narrow, flat entry ways.  The gate only requires enough space to swing open and shut and does not require additional room on the sides of the driveway.

No matter what the style of electronic gate is that you choose there will be major benefits for you.  Convenience, increased safety and containment are three of the most prevalent benefits that are given when home and business owners alike are asked why they choose to have an electronic entry gate installed.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic driveway gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

SAC Fence

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